Renovate Your Home Online

I've had my heart set on a fixer-upper for years now, and my dream is inching closer and closer as the housing prices plummet. As a writer who spends the bulk of her day online, I often doubted whether or not I'd have the time to dedicate to full-force renovation... but now? A little research shows there are numerous tools online that make it super-easy to complete a home makeover of any sort. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or modernizing a bungalow, bookmark these sites for a stress-free renovation:



Paint Calculator:
Forget multiple trips to the hardware store, only to find that your second gallon of paint isn't quite the same shade of green as the first. Nip a stressful situation in the bud with preparation. Enter the approximate square footage of the room, desired number of coats and include the amount of doors and windows for an on-par estimation of paint per gallon. Very handy for budgeting, and incredibly accurate.
Handy-O-Meter? 5 out of 5

Kitchen Planning Tool:
IKEA's known for its inexpensive wares, but did you realize our Swede friends are space-planning experts, as well? Download this easy-to-use program [it's free!] and play with layouts, colors and materials for your future kitchen. When finished, just print your design, which automatically includes the cost of your dream blueprint. Your architect brother-in-law will be so impressed.
Handy-O-Meter? 4 out of 5








Bathroom Planner:
OK, so it's time to tackle that 70's bathroom with shag carpeting. Look no further than this online interactive tool from Reece, which helps you design an aerial view of your bathroom. A bit harder to use than the aforementioned kitchen planner, but very handy in noting which sizes and dimension you'll need for the project at hand.
Handy-O-Meter? 3 out of 5

Paint Color Aid:
I cannot tell you how many times I've painted my walls with a color I assume I love, but my gut feeling wants to hurl as soon as it's on the wall. Answer a few easy questions and receive your color profile (mine is Urban Stone, which is so accurate!). Bonus? Use your results to field your decor and furnishing decisions, as well.
Handy-O-Meter? 5 out of 5

Window Treatment Calculator:
Select the type of window covering you want, include your dimensions and sit back while dozens of window treatment options come to you. For budgeting purposes, prices and colors are included. A life-saver for any homeowner.
Handy-O-Meter? 5 out of 5

Want to know more online sources that can lead you through the world of home design? Read more:
- Design Your Dorm Room Online
- Quiz: Which China Pattern is Best For You?